What is child abuse?

Child abuse is when a child is harmed by an adult or another child – it can be over a period of time but can also be a one-off action. It can be physical, sexual or emotional and it can happen in person or online. It can also be a lack of love, care and attention – this is neglect.

Types of abuse

Find out about the different types of child abuse, what signs to look out for and what to do if you have concerns about a child.

More on types of abuse

Spotting the signs

We can help you to recognise the signs of abuse and give you support if you're worried about a child.

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Effects of abuse

Find out about how child abuse happens, its effects and how we can work together to give a child who's been abused the support they need.

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Children's stories

Children share their stories of experiencing abuse or neglect - and how they found hope for the future.

Read stories about abuse

Reporting child abuse and neglect

Whether you want to report child abuse and neglect, or are worried about a child and not sure what to do, we have advice for you.

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Support for parents

Parenting can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. We've got advice on dealing with babies and tantrums, to divorce and mental health problems.

Learn more

What to do if you suspect abuse

You can contact the NSPCC Helpline by calling 0808 800 5000, emailing help@NSPCC.org.uk or completing our report abuse online form.

Children can call Childline any time on 0800 1111 or find advice and support on the Childline website.

Get support

More about child abuse and neglect

Three school children smiling by railings

Criminal exploitation and gangs

We have advice to help spot the signs of criminal exploitation and about what support is available for children and young people.
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Girl lying on her bed

Female genital mutilation (FGM)

Female genital mutilation is illegal. We've got advice to help you keep children and young people safe.
Find out more
Adult woman sitting at kitchen counter

Non-recent abuse

If you were abused in childhood, you may be struggling with difficult feelings and unwanted memories. We've got information and advice to help.
Read more

How we're working to keep children safe

A group of schoolchildren in a classroom holding a toy Buddy

Working with schools

We support schools to help children understand what abuse is. We also provide professionals with advice, training and resources.
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Young boy smiling and playing with toys.

Our services

Find out how we work directly with children, families and professionals to protect children and prevent abuse.
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Young girl smiling and playing with sand.

Keeping children safe

We have advice and support for parents on children’s mental health, staying safe online and what to do if you’re worried about a child.
Read more

Listen up, Speak up

It’s up to all of us to keep children safe. That’s why we’re encouraging every adult in the UK to Listen up, Speak up. Take our free, 10-minute training and learn what to do if you’re ever worried about a child. 

Sign up and learn how to play your part

Help us make a difference

Whether it's volunteering for us, challenging yourself with an event or campaigning, there are lots of ways you can help us keep more children safe.

Get involved

Do you work or volunteer with children or families?

Visit NSPCC Learning to find information, resources and training to help you respond to child abuse and neglect.

Go to NSPCC Learning